Datka Travel

Eagle Hunting in Issyk-Kul: A Thrilling Ancient Tradition 🦅🏔️

Eagle hunting (bürkütchülük) is one of the most fascinating traditions of the nomadic Kyrgyz people. In the breathtaking landscapes of Issyk-Kul, surrounded by snow-capped mountains and vast open steppes, skilled hunters continue to pass down this ancient art from generation to generation.

1. The Eagle Chooses Its Master

A true bürkütchi (eagle hunter) doesn’t just take an eagle—it must accept him. Young eagles are taken from their nests at about 3-4 months old, but if the bird doesn’t bond with its hunter, it is released back into the wild. 🤯

🌸 Nooruz: Celebrate the Ancient New Year in Kyrgyzstan! 🇰🇬✨ And beautiful portraits of people of Kyrgyzstan 🥰

🚙 2-Day Adventure: Burana Tower, Konorchek & Skazka Canyons, Issyk-Kul 🏔️

Day 1: Bishkek → Burana Tower → Konorchek Canyons → Bokonbayevo (280 km, 4h)
Start your journey with a visit to the ancient Burana Tower, a remnant of the Silk Road, and explore its mystical balbals. Then, hike through the breathtaking Konorchek Canyons, where towering red rock formations create a stunning landscape. By evening, arrive in Bokonbayevo on the shores of Issyk-Kul and settle into a cozy yurt camp under the stars. 🌙🔥

Day 2: Bokonbayevo → Skazka Canyons → Bishkek (350 km, 5h)
Wake up to a fresh mountain morning and take a horseback ride to a panoramic viewpoint of Issyk-Kul. 🏇✨ Next, explore the Fairy Tale Canyons (Skazka)—a surreal landscape with colorful rock formations. After lunch at the yurt camp, enjoy a scenic drive back to Bishkek, reflecting on two days of adventure. 🚗🌄

📍 Perfect for nature lovers & explorers! Who’s joining? 👇

Would you like to spend a night in a yurt?

🛖 In Kyrgyz culture, a yurt is called a «Boz ui», and its roof, adorned with a crown, symbolizes closeness to the sky and connection with nature

🏔️ Join us for a few days on an exciting journey into Kyrgyz culture with our tours, spending a night in a Boz ui and experiencing nomadic life on the shores of Lake Issyk-Kul

Horses are an integral part of nomadic life in Kyrgyzstan!🇰🇬

🐴 They are not only faithful companions and a means of transportation but also valuable helpers in everyday life

🥛 Let’s not forget about the discovery of mares’ milk, a real find for connoisseurs of Kyrgyz cuisine!

🐎 And, of course, don’t forget about tours where you can enjoy horseback riding!